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Wound care myths explained

Did you hear the one about cleaning wounds with a paste of sugar and soap? If you answered no, you’re in luck – it’s one of many myths about caring for wounds. Melanie Hearse talks to a GP to get the lowdown on other common wound care myths.

There is no shortage of myths about the proper care of wounds that don’t cry out for busting – for example, a few of the ‘old wives' tales’ recipes for cleaning wounds include honey, lemon juice, a paste of sugar and soap, a paste of lard, beeswax and resin, or turpentine and salt. Considering how often kids knock themselves, it’s a good idea to have some wound care know-how under your belt, so here’s five common wound care myths busted.

Myth #1: Open wounds heal best

Reality: This one evolved from an old wives' tale based on the premise that keeping a wound uncovered allowed the bad humours (the medieval equivalent to what we now refer to as germs) to escape. We know now that leaving them uncovered is more likely to be considered an open invitation to these ‘bad humours’ to jump aboard. “The best course of action is to keep a wound covered, and check it vigilantly to ensure that there are no signs of infection. A covered wound has less chance of infection, is better protected and will heal faster when coupled with antimicrobial ointments,” says Australian Medical Association (WA) Vice-President, Dr Michael Gannon.

Myth #2: Use peroxide or rubbing alcohol to clean your wound

Reality: Dr Gannon says using rubbing alcohol or hydrogen peroxide to clean a wound is unnecessary and can actually end up irritating the wound. Thoroughly rinse the wound under running water to get rid of any debris or dirt instead.

Myth #3: A scab is always a sign of healing

Reality: The myth that letting a wound ‘dry’ out and scab is the best course of treatment has been around since time immemorial, says Dr Gannon. “A scab does protect wounds from infection to some degree, however scabs actually prevent new skin cells from growing, which delays the healing process.” He recommends always using antimicrobial ointments and covering the wound for a speedy and scab-free recovery.

Myth 4: Itchiness is a sign of healing

Reality: Generally speaking, itchiness is a sign of healing particularly if the itchiness is limited to the wounded area. “In certain cases it can be a sign of an allergic reaction, for example to the medication being used, or it can be a sign of irritation. If a wound is irritated however, it is more likely going to elicit a painful feeling, not an itchy one," Dr Gannon says. If in doubt, please check with your GP.

Myth #5: Put the bandage on and forget about it

Reality: Always vigilantly check the wounded area to ensure there are no signs of infection. Swelling, tenderness, raised glands, fever and throbbing pain are just some of the common symptoms of infection, says Dr Gannon, who recommends you check with your GP if you are in any doubt.